a large building with trees and a sidewalk

THE DESOTO STORY

A LANDMARK WITH
A LOCAL SPIRIT

Since 1890, The DeSoto has been woven into a profound part of Savannah's story. Today, the DeSoto story lives on through genuine hospitality, neighborhood connections, celebrated dining, and a spirit that invites visitors to experience the city like the people who call it home.

Honored Along the Way
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1890 | WHERE THE STORY BEGAN

On New Year’s Day in 1890, the original Hotel DeSoto opened its doors on Liberty Street. Designed by architect William Gibbons Preston, the 300-room hotel quickly became one of Savannah’s most recognizable landmarks and a gathering place for the city.

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1968 | A NEW HOTEL, FAMILIAR DETAILS

The original hotel closed in 1965, but its story stayed on the same corner. A new 15-story hotel opened in 1968, bringing a Mid-Century Modern presence to Savannah while preserving pieces of the original DeSoto, including terracotta details and its grand crystal chandeliers.

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THE GUESTS BECAME PART OF THE STORY

For decades, The DeSoto stood at the center of Savannah’s social life. Its guestbook grew to include Hollywood names such as Katharine Hepburn and Gregory Peck, alongside four U.S. presidents: William McKinley, William Howard Taft, Woodrow Wilson, and Herbert Hoover.

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TODAY | WHERE SAVANNAH’S STORY CONTINUES

In 2017, the hotel returned to The DeSoto name following a major renovation and joined Historic Hotels of America. Today, original architectural details share space with contemporary art, including work connected to Savannah’s creative community through SCAD.

a woman looking at pictures on a wall

SCAD CREATIVITY
LIVES IN DESOTO

Art is part of everyday life in Savannah. Through our partnership with the Savannah College of Art and Design, rotating works by students, graduates, emerging artists, and fine art photographers transform the hotel into a living gallery, inviting guests to discover Savannah’s creative energy around every corner. Guests visiting the university can also enjoy exclusive SCAD rates and special amenities during their stay.